ELECTRICAL FAULT & CALLOUT HELP
Burning smell from a socket or fuse box?
Take the safe next step
If there is fire, smoke or immediate danger, move to safety and call 999. Do not wait for an electrician or a callback.
An electrical burning smell, melted plastic or crackling socket needs prompt attention. Keep clear of the affected equipment. You do not need to find the cause before seeking help.
Warning signs around plugs, sockets and the consumer unit
Burning smells, discolouration and buzzing or crackling can be signs that electrical equipment is unsafe. Do not touch equipment to check whether it is hot, remove covers or try another appliance in the same socket. A remote description cannot confirm the cause or establish that the equipment is safe.
Does this sound familiar?
- A smell of burning or hot plastic near electrical equipment.
- Scorch marks, melted plastic or visible damage you have already noticed.
- Buzzing or crackling from a socket, switch or fuse box.
What an emergency electrician needs to assess
If emergency services are not needed, call to discuss an electrical callout. We check for an independent electrician who can assess the problem on site. Tell us whether the equipment is in a home, rental property or business, and who can authorise work. The electrician can explain what investigation and repairs may be required after inspecting it.
A smell that stops still needs attention
Do not treat the disappearance of the smell or noise as confirmation that the equipment is safe. Stop using the affected equipment and seek professional advice. If the situation becomes dangerous while you are waiting, use emergency services rather than waiting for an arranged visit.
What to tell us when you call
- The location of the affected equipment, described from a safe place.
- Whether you have noticed smoke, sparks, an unusual smell or visible damage.
- Your postcode, a contact number and whether others are at the property.
We check the availability of independent electrician partners for your postcode. We speak with you to confirm the arrangements before a callout goes ahead. If nobody is available, we’ll tell you.
For evening or weekend enquiries, read our out-of-hours electrician guide. If you manage the property for someone else, see landlord and business callouts.
How our emergency electrician network worksUseful answers
Should I use a callback form for an electrical burning smell?
Do not wait for a callback if you need urgent help. Move to safety and call 999 for fire, smoke or immediate danger. Otherwise phone an electrician directly; use another local provider if our network cannot help.
Can you tell me over the phone whether the socket is safe?
No. We can record what you have noticed and discuss attendance, but an electrician needs to assess the equipment. Do not approach it or reproduce the fault for us.